Mobile hologram apparatus

ABSTRACT

A mobile hologram apparatus is disclosed. An example apparatus includes a sheet folded along preformed creases into a pyramid structure configured to be actuated between a compressed state and an uncompressed state. The pyramid structure has a base section and a top section connected by four side sections. The pyramid structure in the compressed state has a height that is less than 1/10th the height of the pyramid structure in the uncompressed state. The apparatus also includes an elastic band connected to a perimeter of the base section of the pyramid structure and configured to cause the pyramid structure to self-actuate from the compressed state to the uncompressed state.

PRIORITY CLAIM

The present application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S.Design patent application Ser. No. 29/569,369, filed on Jun. 27, 2016,now U.S. Design Pat. No. D858,614, the entirety of which is incorporatedherein by reference.

BACKGROUND

It is estimated that companies spend approximately $160 billion on alldirect and digital marketing. Despite trends towards digital marketing,direct mail still accounts for about $48 billion in spending.Surprisingly, marketers have found that direct mail has a betterresponse rate compared to email. For instance, consumers sometimesexperience ‘digital-overload’ and prefer, at times, reading printedmaterial, even direct mail marketing. The physical look and feel ofprint marketing offers a break from the bombardment of emails andwebpages. However, direct mail materials often cost 100 times more thancomparable digital marketing through email. The substantial costs arisefrom purchasing base materials, printing, and mailing. This significantdifference in cost oftentimes reduces the return on the marketinginvestment in direct mail.

As one can appreciate, the significant costs usually limit direct mailto advertisements for local services and high-value products. A searchthrough a junk-mail pile in any residence yields advertisements forlocal services including landscaping, painting, housekeeping, realestate services, and day cares. In addition, there are advertisementsfor high-value products including cars, vacations, real estate,cable/satellite television service, phone service, furniture, andcustom/bespoke clothing. To improve the return on investment, marketersare continuously searching for direct mail pieces that standout andimprove engagement and response rates, thereby improving the return oninvestment. For instance, some marketers send direct mail materials thatinclude limited-functionality cell phones that automatically place acall to a service center and display content upon being opened. Othermarketers have begun to integrate direct mail pieces with onlinecontent. As long as billions of dollars are being spent on direct mail,marketers will continue to create new types of direct mail marketingmaterials.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure provides a new and innovative mobile hologramapparatus for use in direct mail materials. The example mobile hologramapparatus is configured to self-actuate or open from a compressed stateto an uncompressed state when removed from a direct mail piece. In anuncompressed state, the example mobile hologram apparatus has apyramid-shape with a flat top (e.g., a frustum). The mobile hologramapparatus is made from translucent material, such as plastic, thatenables a consumer to view a holographic image produced by internallyreflected and/or interfered light. The flat top of the example mobilehologram apparatus is configured to be placed on a display screen of aconsumer device. Light, arranged in a predefined pattern, propagatesthrough the flat top (or angled side sections) and reflects off the sidesections of the pyramid. The reflected light interferes within a middleof the pyramid to produce a desired holographic image. The use of themobile hologram apparatus with a network-enabled consumer devicefacilitates the transmission of content from one or more servers fordisplay within the example apparatus as a holographic image, video, oranimation.

In an example embodiment, a mobile hologram apparatus includes a sheetfolded along preformed creases into a pyramid structure configured to beactuated between a compressed state and an uncompressed state. Theexample pyramid structure has a base section and a top section connectedby four side sections. The compressed pyramid structure has a heightthat is less than 1/10th the height of the uncompressed pyramidstructure. The example apparatus also includes an elastic band connectedto a perimeter of the base section of the pyramid structure andconfigured to cause the pyramid structure to self-actuate from thecompressed state to the uncompressed state.

In another embodiment, a mobile hologram apparatus includes a sheetfolded along preformed creases into a pyramid structure configured to beactuated between a compressed state and an uncompressed state. Theexample pyramid structure has a base section and a top section connectedby side sections. The compressed pyramid structure has a height that isless than the height of the uncompressed pyramid structure, and a largerbase section than a size of the base section of the uncompressed pyramidstructure. The example apparatus also includes an elastic band connectedto the base of the pyramid structure and configured to cause the pyramidstructure to actuate from the compressed state to the uncompressedstate. The apparatus further includes a direct mail envelope dimensionedto accommodate at least the pyramid structure in the compressed state.

In yet another embodiment, a mobile hologram sheet apparatus includes asquare-shaped top section located within a middle of the transparentsheet apparatus and four triangular-shaped side sections each having abottom edge and a top edge. Each of the side sections is connected atthe top edge to the top section. The four side sections are 90 degreesapart from each other. The example sheet apparatus also includes fourboot-shaped base arms each connected to the bottom edge of one of theside sections. The example sheet apparatus further includes a first fourpreformed creases located at respective junctions between each of thetop edges of the four side sections and the top section, and a secondfour preformed creases located at respective junctions between each ofthe side sections and the respective base arms.

Additional features and advantages of the disclosed system, method, andapparatus are described in, and will be apparent from, the followingDetailed Description and the Figures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1 shows a mobile hologram environment that includes at least onecontent server, at least one consumer device, and at least one mobilehologram apparatus, according to an example embodiment of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 2 shows a diagram of a sheet used to form the mobile hologramapparatus of FIG. 1, according to an example embodiment of the presentdisclosure.

FIGS. 3 to 6 show diagrams of the mobile hologram apparatus of FIGS. 1and 2 in an assembled, compressed state, according to exampleembodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7 shows a diagram of the mobile hologram apparatus transitioningfrom the compressed state to an uncompressed state, according to anexample embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 8 to 13 show the mobile hologram apparatus of FIGS. 1 and 2 in theuncompressed state, according to example embodiments of the presentdisclosure.

FIGS. 14 and 15 show diagrams of the example mobile hologram apparatusof FIG. 1 in an uncompressed state placed atop a consumer devicedisplaying a holographic image, according to example embodiments of thepresent disclosure.

FIGS. 16 to 18 show diagrams of alternative sheets that may be used tocreate mobile hologram apparatuses, according to example embodiments ofthe present disclosure.

FIG. 19 illustrates a flow diagram showing an example procedure tocreate the mobile hologram apparatus of FIGS. 1 to 15, according to anexample embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 20 illustrates a flow diagram showing example procedures to displaycontent using the mobile hologram apparatus of FIGS. 1 to 15, accordingto example embodiments of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure relates in general to a mobile hologram apparatusor more generally, a hologram projector for use in direct mail. Theexample mobile hologram apparatus is configured to self-actuate orself-assemble from a compressed state to an uncompressed state whenremoved from a direct mail piece. In the uncompressed state, the examplemobile hologram apparatus has a pyramid-shape with a flat top section, aflat base section, and at least three sides sections (e.g., a frustum).The flat top is configured to be placed on a display screen of aconsumer device such that the pyramid-shape is upside down.Preconfigured light beams propagate from the display screen and thoughthe top section and/or side sections of the mobile hologram apparatus.The light reflects off of the side and base sections to intersect withina center of the pyramid-shape. An interference pattern is formed at thepoint the light intersects to produce a holographic image. Thepreconfigured light beams may be varied over time to give the appearancethat the object shown in the holographic image is rotating or moving. Insome instances, the light beams may be varied overtime to cause aholographic video to be displayed.

There are known do-it-yourself hologram devices available. For instance,websites illustrate how a hologram apparatus can be constructed fromcompact-disc cases or other known plastic components. Generally, a userhas to cut the pyramid sides and base from the material. The user thanhas to glue or tape the sides and base together to form the hologramapparatus. A known issue with these devices is that they are static.Known hologram devices cannot be compressed and uncompressed, which maketheir use in direct mail materials undesirable.

Some known marketers have attempted to mail unassembled pieces of ahologram device and provide instructions how the pieces are to be gluedor taped together. For instance, a known device is mailed in a plasticsheet. A user is instructed to remove the individual side and basesections from the sheet, and then glue or tape the pieces together. Asignificant drawback of this known device is that consumers go throughdirect mail very quickly and cannot be bothered with the time consumingtask of assembling a hologram device using glue and tape.

The example mobile hologram apparatus disclosed herein overcomes atleast some of the above-mentioned issues of known hologram devices bybeing configured to immediately self-actuate from a compressed state,which is conducive to mailing, to an uncompressed state upon beingremoved from the direct mail piece. Almost no interaction is requiredfrom a consumer other than removing the compressed mobile hologramapparatus. The self-assembly nature of the mobile hologram apparatusencourages consumers to view content associated with the direct mailpiece, and hopefully, purchase the related product or service. Thedisclosure provided herein describes non-limiting examples of mobilehologram apparatuses that are configured to self-assemble.

Throughout the disclosure, reference is made to a hologram orholographic image. As disclosed herein, a hologram or holographic imageincludes an interference pattern of light formed by pre-specified lightbeams reflecting off portions of side sections (and/or base section) ofa pyramid-shaped mobile hologram apparatus. The hologram or holographicimage may be two or three-dimensional. While blue light providessignificant clarity, the hologram or holographic image may be displayedin any color or multiple colors. Further, the hologram or holographicimage may include a static or dynamic image. For instance, an objectdisplayed within the holographic image may be shown as rotating ormoving in-place. In some instances, the hologram or holographic imagemay include a video.

Reference is also made herein to content for generating a hologram orholographic image. The content may include one or more files that definean image, moving image, and/or video to be displayed by a screen of aconsumer device. The files specify how light beams are to be projectedfrom the consumer device such that a reflected intersection of the beamswithin the mobile hologram apparatus produce a holographic image. Theholographic image is generally not viewable on the display screenitself. The content may include, for example, an image of a product, acompany trademark, or any other displayable object. As mentioned above,the content may provide a static holographic image or a dynamic imagethat appears to move or change.

Further, while reference is made to placing the example mobile hologramapparatus on a display screen of a consumer device, it should beappreciated that the mobile hologram apparatus may be used in manydifferent environments and/or use cases. For example, the mobilehologram apparatus may be placed on a television or computer monitorscreen. In other examples, the example mobile hologram apparatus may beused in retail environments for product and/or service displays.Further, the mobile hologram apparatus may be used in entertainment,such as 4D theaters or rides that utilize audience interaction.

Moreover, reference is made herein to using the mobile hologramapparatus within direct mail material, such as an envelope. It should beappreciated that the mobile hologram apparatus may also be providedwithin an insert of a magazine, catalogue, or brochure. The mobilehologram apparatus may also be included within newspapers or dispensedas promotional merchandise at conferences, trade shows, sporting events,fairs, etc. In some examples, the mobile hologram apparatus may beincluded within product packaging and/or instructions as a way toillustrate, in a tutorial for example, product features or assembly in athree-dimensional image.

Mobile Hologram Environment Embodiment

FIG. 1 shows a diagram of an example mobile hologram environment 100,according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure. Theexample environment 100 includes content servers 102, a network 104, andconsumer devices 106. The example content servers 102 are configured toprovide content 108 to the consumer devices 106 responsive to receivinga message 110 including, for example, an identifier and/or link. Asmentioned above, the content 108 may include file(s) or message(s)specifying one or more static images, movable images, animation, and/orvideo. The content 108 may also include file(s) or message(s) specifyinga sequence of static images, moveable images, text, video, animation,and/or combinations thereof.

The example content servers 102 are configured to store the contentwithin one or more store systems. The content may be created and/orgenerated at the content servers 102. Additionally or alternatively, thecontent 108 may be created at a third-party system 112 and transmittedto one of the content servers 102 for distribution. The content isindexed or otherwise correlated to an identifier. In other instances,content is located at separate addresses and/or links.

The example content servers 102 are configured to enable the content 108associated with a particular identifier and/or location to be edited.For example, the content server 102 b is instructed to store a firstversion of content 108 a. At a later time, the content server 102 b isinstructed to store a second version of the content 108 a. The secondversion may include more timely information or replace staleinformation. Such a configuration enables a marketer and/or company tochange which content is provided to a consumer, even after a direct mailpiece with the corresponding identifier and/or link is mailed.

The content servers 102 may be included within any processor, hardware,computer, storage system, workstation, etc. Further the content servers102 may be distributed within a cloud computing network. In someembodiments, the content servers 102 may operate using virtualizedsystems. For instance, the content servers 102 may provide applicationprogrammable interfaces (“API”) that are configured to receivespecifically formatted messages for particular content. The contentservers 102 translate the request messages based on which third-partysystem is hosting the content, and operate as routers to transmit therequests for content to an appropriate third-party system. The contentservers 102 may then route the content received from the third-partysystem to the consumer device 102, providing the appearance (to theconsumer device) that the content server 102 provided the content.

In some embodiments, the content servers 102 may also receive feedbackregarding a consumer's interaction with the content. Such informationmay include, for example, a duration the consumer viewed the content, anumber of times the content was replayed, a date/time the content wasplayed, and/or an indication whether a user interacted with the content.Interaction with the content may include, for example, enteringinformation into the consumer device 106 in response to a prompt fromthe content. Interaction with the content 108 may also include physicalactions to move and/or rotate a holographic image displayed by thecontent 108 (as detected by one more sensors on the consumer device106), and/or causing the consumer device 106 to navigate to a website orother web-based destination that is related to and/or specified by thecontent 108. For example, after viewing content 108, the consumer device106 may transmit a request 114 (per an instruction from a consumer) tothe third-party system 112 to view more information or to purchase aproduct and/or service advertised by the content 108. In some instances,the request 114 may be sent to another entity separate from thethird-party system 112 and/or the content server 102 c that provided thecontent 108 b. For instance, the third-party system 112 may include adigital marketing company tasked with creating content that advertises aproduct sold by another company. A response to the content 108 may besent to a web site of the other company and/or a distributor of theother company.

The example network 104 (e.g., the Internet) may include any type ofwireless and/or wired network. The network 104 may also include anynumber of routers and/or switches for transmitting requests for contentand/or requests for content between the content servers 102 and/orconsumer devices 106. The network 104 may include a cellular, wide areanetwork (“WAN”), and/or local area network (“LAN”).

The example mobile hologram environment 100 of FIG. 1 also includes theclient devices 106 configured to receive content 108 and display lightbeams or images to cause the content 108 to be displayed as a hologram.The consumer devices 106 may comprise, for example, a smartphone, atablet computer, a smartwatch, smart-eyewear, a laptop computer, adesktop computer, a workstation, a processor with a display screen, or aserver with a display screen. The consumer device 106 may include amedia player for rendering the light beams or images for display as aholographic image. In other examples, the consumer device 106 (e.g., theconsumer device 106 a) may include a custom application 107 (i.e., anapp) configured to render and cause the device 106 to display lightbeams or images from a display screen. For instance, the application 107may cause four images separated by 90 degrees to be displayed on ascreen of the consumer device 106. The interference of the four imageswithin a four-sided hologram apparatus creates a three-dimensionalholographic image. It should be appreciated that the number of imagesdisplayed on a screen (by the application 107) of the device 106 shouldcorrespond to a number of sides of the example mobile hologramapparatus. The application 107 may also record a consumer's interactionwith the holographic image and/or change the appearance of theholographic image based on input received by the consumer device 106from the consumer.

The consumer device 106 is configured to operate in conjunction with oneor more mobile hologram apparatuses 116. In the illustrated example, themobile hologram apparatus 116 is sent to the consumer within a directmail piece 118. The mobile hologram apparatus 116 is placed into acompressed state while in the direct mail piece 118. In someembodiments, a consumer device 106 or other device with similar displayfunctionality may also be included or placed within the direct mailpiece 118. For instance, a display screen having a memory preloaded withcontent may be included within the direct mail piece 118. In theillustrated example of FIG. 1, a consumer places the mobile hologramapparatus 116 on the display screen of the consumer device 106, which isloaded with content 108, to view a hologram. In other embodiments, themobile hologram apparatus 116 may be integrated with a consumer deviceor other device that has display functionality.

Returning to FIG. 1, after removal from the direct mail piece 118, themobile hologram apparatus 116 is configured to self-actuate orself-assemble from a compressed pyramid structure into an uncompressedpyramid structure. As provided in more detail below, an elastic band ortension mechanism is placed around a perimeter of a base section of themobile hologram apparatus 116. The placement of the elastic band aroundthe base section causes the base to restrict when the mobile hologramapparatus 116 is removed from the direct mail piece 118. Restriction ofthe base section causes side sections to be angled upward forming anuncompressed pyramid structure. Further description of the compositionof the mobile hologram apparatus 116 and the direct mail piece 118 isprovided in more detail in conjunction with FIGS. 2 to 13 below.

The direct mail piece 118 shown in FIG. 1 may include a restrainingmechanism configured to hold the mobile hologram apparatus 116 in thecompressed state or flat configuration. The restraining mechanism mayinclude an elastic band placed on an outside of the mobile hologramapparatus 116, an adhesive sticker, or any other device adapted toretain the mobile hologram apparatus 116 in the compressed state. Afterthe restraining mechanism is released or removed, the elastic band ortension mechanism is configured to pull the panels or sections 202, 204,206, 208 (shown in FIG. 2) of the mobile hologram apparatus 116 into theuncompressed state or expanded configuration.

The example mobile hologram apparatus 116 is configured to be placedupside-down on top of a display screen of the consumer device 106. Forinstance, mobile hologram apparatus 116 a is placed on consumer device106 a and mobile hologram apparatus 116 b is placed on consumer device106 b. It should be appreciated that the relative sizes of the mobilehologram apparatus 116 and consumer devices 106 may differ. Thepositioning of the mobile hologram apparatus 116 on the display screenenables light waves or beams to be projected into the mobile hologramapparatus 116. The light beams reflect off the side and base sectionsand intersect and interfere with each other within an interior middle ofthe mobile hologram apparatus 116. The intersection of the light causesa three-dimensional interference pattern to form, which is referred toherein as a hologram or holographic image. The example mobile hologramapparatus 116 b of FIG. 1 is shown with a cylinder-shaped holographicimage 120.

To obtain the content 108 (e.g., file(s) specifying light waves, beams,or images to be projected from a display screen of a consumer device106) for displaying the holographic image 120, the direct mail piece 118and/or the mobile hologram apparatus 116 may include an identifier 122.For instance, identifier 122 a is included within or printed on anoutside of the base section of the mobile hologram apparatus 116.Additionally, the identifier 122 b is included within or printed on thedirect mail piece 118. The identifiers 122 may include a bar code, QRcode, or any other code that is readable by the consumer device 106. Inthese examples, a consumer uses the consumer device 106 to scan thecode, which includes a network address, website address, and/or contentcode that corresponds to a location of related content at one of theservers 102. The consumer device 106 transmits message 110, with thecontent code, to the specified network/website address. In otherembodiments, the identifier 122 may include text specifying, forexample, a webpage and/or content code. In these other embodiments, theconsumer manually enters the website address and/or content code into aweb browser. In some alternative embodiments, the identifier 122 mayinclude a microchip that is programmed with a network/website addressesand/or content code. In these examples, the consumer device 106 may readthe microchip using a NFC reader or RFID reader, which provides theaddress and content code for accessing the related content 108 withinthe content server 102.

The example consumer device 106 is configured to receive the content 108in one or more messages from the content server 102. The content 108 mayinclude an image file, such as a JPEG, EXIF, TIFF, GIF, BMP, PNG, etc.for displaying a static image. The content 108 may also include asequence stream of image files to provide the appearance of an animationor moveable image. Alternatively, the content 108 may include a moviefile, such as a MOV, WMV, MP3, MP4, MPEG, GPP, Flash, etc. fordisplaying a video or animation. The consumer device 106 is configuredto select a media player that corresponds to the type of received fileto display the specified image. The content 108 may also specify thedisplay of alignment markers 124 that guide a user to where the mobilehologram apparatus 116 is to be placed on a display screen of theconsumer device 106. The alignment markers 124 may include, for example,a dashed box around a perimeter of the displayed image or a dashed boxdefining an interior perimeter of the displayed image.

In some embodiments, a web browser may be used by the consumer device106 instead of a media player. For example, the identifier 122 mayinclude a web address, which when scanned or input, causes a web browseron the consumer device 106 to navigate to a specified webpage thatincludes the content 108 and/or the alignment guides 124. The content108 may be rendered through the webpage, using one or more media pluginsas needed, in yet other embodiments, the custom application 107 on theconsumer device 106 may be configured to render and cause the content tobe displayed. The application 107 may be transmitted to the consumerdevice 106 prior to the content being transmitted, but after theidentifier 122 is scanned.

It should be appreciated that the image displayed by the consumer device106 may appear unintelligible (or four images that are 90 degrees apart(for an apparatus with four side sections)) when viewed by a consumerwithout the mobile hologram apparatus 116. The displayed image isconfigured to compensate for the size and/or angle of side sections ofthe mobile hologram apparatus 116 such that when the light related tothe image is reflected, the holographic image 120 is formed.Accordingly, the content 108 provided to the consumer device 106 has tobe preconfigured for the screen size of the consumer device 106 and/orthe size and/or dimensions of the mobile hologram apparatus 116.

In some embodiments, the identifier 122 may be programmed or otherwiseinclude the content 108. In these examples, the consumer device 106 doesnot need to access the content server 102. In an example, a QR code maybe programmed to include the content 108, which when scanned by theconsumer device 106, provides enough information for displaying a staticimage. In another example, the content 108 is included within a memoryof the identifier 122. Scanning of the memory causes the consumer device106 to receive the content 108 and display a holographic image, video,animation, etc.

In addition to playing an image, the content 108 may also specify soundsto be played and/or instructions for activating a vibrator on theconsumer device 106. The audio may be coordinated with the display ofthe holographic image 120 (or video) to enhance the advertisement ormarketing. The vibrator function may also be used to add another sensoryfeature to the marketing communication (and be coordinated with thedisplay).

In some embodiments, the consumer device 106 is configured to processfeedback from a consumer during and/or after viewing the holographicimage 120. For example, the consumer device 106 may enable a consumer toenter a specific web address into a web browser to navigate to a webpageto view more information and/or purchase a product and/or service. Inother examples, the media player may display a website link or otherrelated information on a display of the consumer device 106. Thisdisplayed information is meant to be read from the display and not themobile hologram apparatus 116. A consumer may view the informationand/or select the link to navigate to a webpage to view moreinformation. In yet other examples, the content 108 may includeinstructions causing the consumer device 106 to automatically navigateto a specified webpage after the presentation of the holographic image120. Such a configuration combines the engagement of the holographicimage 120 with an increased potential for a consumer purchase.

In some examples, the consumer device 106, using for example the customapplication 107 or through website code, may track how a consumerinteracts with the holographic image 120. As mentioned above, this mayinclude tracking how long the image 120 was viewed, a number of separatetimes the images was viewed, a date/time the image was viewed, and/orwhether the consumer navigated to a webpage to view more information. Ininstances where the application 107 tracks the interaction, theapplication may cause the consumer device 106 to transmit periodicmessages 114 to the content server 102 and/or the third-party system 112indicative of the interaction.

In some examples, the content 108 may include instructions that activateone or more sensors on the consumer device 106 to enable a consumer tointeract with the holographic image 120. In other examples, the customapplication 107 may be used to manage interaction control. In anembodiment, the content 108 may instruct the consumer device 106 todetect, through capacitance-sensing of the display screen, when aconsumer touches the mobile hologram apparatus 116. In other words, themobile hologram apparatus 116 may comprise a three-dimensional extensionof the display screen. Based on the consumer's interaction, the content108 may include instructions that specify how the holographic image 120is to be modified. For example, after detecting a consumer has touched aside section of the mobile hologram apparatus 116, the consumer device106 may detect the corresponding section of the display screen, whichcauses a media player or application 107 to determine that theholographic image 120 is to be rotated to face the selected section. Inother examples, the application 107 may detect certain consumer touchingaround the mobile hologram apparatus 116, thereby causing theholographic image 120 to rotate, enlarge, zoom-in/out, progress fasteror rewind through a video, etc.

In other embodiments, the consumer device 106 may activate a camera thatrecords a consumer's interaction with the mobile hologram apparatus 116.The consumer device 106, via the application 107, for example, may useimage processing to determine consumer movement with respect to themobile hologram apparatus 116. For instance, an imaging feature of theapplication 107 may include one or more rules and/or routines foridentifying the mobile hologram apparatus 116 within an image. Theimaging feature may also include rules and/or routines for identifyingfingers, hands, pens, etc. The imaging feature may further determine adistance between the mobile hologram apparatus 116 and a consumer'sfingers. The imaging feature may then determine how the distance changesover time in relation to different parts of the mobile hologramapparatus 116. The imaging feature may also correlate the detectedmovement to one or more rules that specify how the holographic image 120is to be changed or altered. For instance, based on detected movement,the application 107 may cause the holographic image 120 to rotate, pan,zoom in/out, enlarge, change colors, etc. In some instances, thisinteraction may also be tracked and transmitted to the content server102 and/or the third-party system 112.

Mobile Hologram Apparatus Embodiment

FIG. 2 shows a diagram of a sheet 200 used to form the mobile hologramapparatus 116 of FIG. 1, according to an example embodiment of thepresent disclosure. It should be appreciated that the pattern depictedby the sheet 200 is only an example. In other embodiments, the sheet 200may be configured in a different pattern that is foldable, bendable, orotherwise capable of being constructed into a mobile hologram apparatus.For example, as discussed in conjunction with FIGS. 16 to 18, the sheetmay include sections for a support stand.

The example sheet 200 of FIG. 2 includes a top section 202, sidesections 204, and a base section 206 that comprises four base arms 208.The sections 202, 204, 206, and 208 include panels of material,preferably transparent or semi-translucent material. In some instances,the base section 206 may include an opaque material.

In the illustrated example, the mobile hologram apparatus 116 isconfigured to include four side sections 204 such that the top section202 and the bottom section 206 are formed into squares. However, inother embodiments, the mobile hologram apparatus 116 may include a fewas three sides or as many as ten sides. Correspondingly, the top section202 and the base section 206 are configured to be formed into theappropriate shape (e.g., a triangle, pentagon, hexagon, etc.).

The example top section 202 is located in a middle of the sheet 200. Thefour side sections 204 are configured to extend outward from the topsection 202 and be separated by approximately 90 degrees. Each of theside sections 204 has a triangular-shape, which enables the sidesections to be joined together to form a pyramid structure.Additionally, each of the side sections includes a first side with a tab213 and a second side with a notch 215. The tab 213 is configured to fitwithin the notch 215 of an adjacent side section when the mobilehologram apparatus 116 is formed into an uncompressed pyramid. The tab213 and notch 215 are configured to help support and connect the sidesections 204 together, thereby preventing light from escaping andensuring the side sections are positioned at the desired angles withrespect to each other.

As shown in FIG. 2, each side section has a top edge 210 and a bottomedge 212. The top edge 210 is configured to contact the top section 202.The bottom edge 212 is configured to contact the respective base arm208. Creases 214 (or joints) are formed where the top edge 210 of theside section 204 contacts the top section 202 and where the bottom edge212 contacts the respective base arm 208. The creases 214 are configuredto enable the side sections 204 and base arms 208 to be folded orotherwise bent to form a pyramid (or frustum) structure.

The example base arms 208 are configured to be combined or otherwiseintegrated together to form a square-shaped base section 206. In theillustrated example, each of the base arms 208 has an L-shape orboot-shape. A first side 220 of the base arm 208 is relatively straightand configured to contact the crease 214 between an adjacent sidesection 204 and base arm 208 when the mobile hologram apparatus 116 isin an uncompressed state. For example, the first side 220 of the basearm 208 d is configured to contact adjacent side section 204 a and basearm 208 a at crease 214 c when the mobile hologram apparatus 116 isassembled and uncompressed. Such a configuration provides support forthe mobile hologram apparatus 116 and restricts how far the base arms208 can be actuated.

Each of the base arms 208 also includes a second side 222 opposite ofthe first side 220. The example second side 222 has a curved shape thatenables the base arms 208 to be pressed or integrated together to formthe base section 206 when the mobile hologram apparatus 116 is in theuncompressed state. For instance, in the uncompressed state, the basearms 208 contact each other at respective indentation sections 224. Itshould be appreciated that the second side 222 of the base arms 208 mayhave any shape that enables the base arms 208 to be combined together toform the base section 206 of the mobile hologram apparatus 116.

The example sheet 200 of FIG. 2 also includes recess sections 230located between the base arms 208 and the side sections 204. The recesssections 230 in the illustrated embodiment are located at the first andsecond sides 220 and 222 of the base arms 208. In other examples, onlyone recess section may exist between the base arm 208 and the sidesection 204. In these examples, the recess section 230 may be located inthe middle of the connection between the base arm 208 and the sidesection 204. The example recess sections 230 are configured to enable anelastic band to be placed around a perimeter of the base section 206when the mobile hologram apparatus 116 is assembled.

The example sheet 200 of FIG. 2 is configured to be constructed from abendable or foldable material including, for example, plastic, aplastic-polymer compound, a biological polymer, bendable glass, acarbon-based compound, bendable crystal, and/or combinations thereof.The sheet 200 may be formed by initially cutting a square or rectangleof plastic from a roll. Then, each of the sections 204 and 208 may beformed by cutting along a stencil. After the sheet 200 is cut using astencil, the creases 214 may be formed. In other examples, the sheet 200may be created using injection molding. In these examples, the creases214 may be formed through the molding process or added afterwards.

The sheet 200 may have a width between 10 centimeters (“cm”) and 75 cmand a length between 10 and 75 cm. It should be appreciated that thesheet 200 may be smaller than 10 cm and larger than 75 cm depending onthe application. Further, the sheet 200 has a thickness between 0.1millimeters (“mm”) and 4 mm. However, the sheet may be thinner than 0.1mm and thicker than 4 mm depending on the application.

The example sheet 200 is configured to be transparent to enable aconsumer to view the internal holographic image 120. However, theangling of the side sections 204, despite being transparent, stillcauses at least some light to reflect to a center of the mobile hologramapparatus 116. In some instances, the internally-facing side of the sidesections 204 and/or the base arms 208 may be coated with a transparentor semi-transparent film that improves light reflectivity.

In some examples, the side arms 208 may be opaque to prevent overheadlight from diminishing the appearance of the holographic image 120. Forexample, ink or dyes may be injected into the side arms 208 duringmanufacture. Alternatively, an externally facing side of the side arms208 may be coated in a film or printed. Further, the identifier 122 maybe printed onto an externally-facing side of the base arms 208.

In yet other examples, the transparent sheet 200 may be formed from alamination of multiple layers. In these other examples, a thin opaquelayer may be placed between two transparent layers in the base arms 208.Some or all of the opaque layer may include externally-facing printedtext or images. For example, the opaque layer may include a companyname, company trademark, company logo, and/or one or more marketingimages. In an embodiment, each of the base arms 208 may include aportion of an image that is complete when the base arms 208 are foldedtogether to form the uncompressed pyramid structure of the mobilehologram apparatus 116. The opaque layer may also include the identifier122. Further, an internally-facing side of the opaque layer or adifferent layer may include a film or other costing to improve lightreflection within the mobile hologram apparatus 116.

In some embodiments, an externally-facing side of the top section 202may be coated in a film or other adhesive to improve a connectionbetween the mobile hologram apparatus 116 and display screen of theconsumer device 106. In some instances, the film and/or adhesive maycreate a static-based bond with the display screen. In other instances,the film and/or adhesive may form a removable chemical bond with thedisplay screen. In yet other instances, the top section 202 may notcontain a film and/or adhesive. Further, in some sections, the topsection 202 may be cut out or define a window that is framed by the topedge 210 of the side sections 204. Moreover, in other embodiments, thetop section 202 may include a window, such as a circular or squarewindow.

Reference is made throughout to the sheet 200 being assembled into theexample mobile hologram apparatus 116 and being in a compressed state(e.g., a flat configuration) or uncompressed state (e.g., a expandedconfiguration). FIGS. 3 to 6 show the mobile hologram apparatus 116 in acompressed state. FIG. 7 shows a transition of the mobile hologramapparatus 116 from the compressed state to the uncompressed state. FIGS.8 to 13 show the mobile hologram apparatus 116 in the uncompressedstate.

Compressed State Embodiment

FIG. 3 shows a diagram of the sheet 200 of the mobile hologram apparatus116 of FIG. 2 in a compressed state (e.g., a compressed pyramidstructure), according to an example embodiment of the presentdisclosure. In the compressed state, the example sheet 200 is assembledin a pyramid (or frustum) structure that is substantially flat, or whereat least a height of the mobile hologram apparatus 116 in the compressedstate is less than 1/10 the height of the mobile hologram apparatus 116in the uncompressed state. For instance, in the compressed state, eachof the four side sections 204 are substantially in the same plane as thetop section 202. However, in some compressed state examples, the sidesections 204 may be at a slight angle (e.g., between 0 degrees and 15degrees) from the top section 202 at the respective creases 214.

Additionally, in the compressed state, the base arms 208 areapproximately folded 180 degrees with respect to the side sections 204.In other words, the base arms 208 are folded inwards towards the middleof the sheet 200 or towards the top section 202. In addition, the basearms 208 overlap or interlock with each other. In some examples, thebase arms 208 may be at a slight angle (e.g., between 165 degrees and180 degrees) from the corresponding side section 204 at the respectivecrease 214. Such a configuration enables the mobile hologram apparatus116 to be substantially flat for mailing within a direct mail piece.

FIG. 3 also shows elastic band 302 (or more generally a tensionmechanism) that is positioned about a perimeter of the base 206 (e.g.,at the intersection of the base arms 208 and respective side sections204). The elastic band 302 is configured to be positioned withinrecessed sections 230 to facilitate contacting the bottom edges 212 ofthe side sections 204 and/or portions of the base arms 208. In someembodiments, the elastic band 302 contacts the base arms 208 at aportion that is between the recessed sections 230. Further, the elasticband 302 is configured to be placed on the externally-facing side of thebase arms 208.

In the compressed state, shown in FIG. 3, the elastic band 302 isstretched. Accordingly the elastic band 302 is configured to retainelasticity memory through the mailing process. The elastic band 302 mayinclude, for example, an Aero® clear retainer band, which comprises aclear and/or transparent elastic band. In the illustrated example, theelastic band 302 has a length of 8 cm, a width of 3 mm, and a thicknessof 0.3 mm. In other example, the elastic band 302 may be dimensioneddifferently based on the size of the sheet 200. The elastic band 302 maybe comprised of rubber, an elastomeric plastic, an elastomeric polymer,combinations thereof, or any tension mechanism.

FIG. 4 shows a diagram of a top-down view of the mobile hologramapparatus 116 of FIG. 2 in the compressed state, according to an exampleembodiment of the present disclosure. The elastic bands 302 are showncircumventing the corners of the side sections 204 and base arms 208 ofthe sheet 200 and progressing through the recessed sections 230.Further, in the compressed state, because the side sections 204 aresubstantially planar with the top section 202, the base arms 208 are‘pushed out’ from a center of the mobile hologram apparatus 116. Themobile hologram apparatus 116 actuates to the uncompressed state by theelastic band 302 constricting against the base arms 208, thereby causingself-actuation to form an uncompressed pyramid structure.

FIG. 5 shows a diagram of a side-profile view of the mobile hologramapparatus 116 of FIG. 2 in the compressed state, according to an exampleembodiment of the present disclosure. As illustrated, in the compressedstate, the folded and assembled sheet 200 is substantially flat. In someembodiments, the height of the mobile hologram apparatus 116 in thecompressed state is a few millimeters.

FIG. 6 shows a diagram of mobile hologram apparatus 116 of FIG. 2 in thecompressed state being placed inside of direct mail piece 118, accordingto an example embodiment of the present disclosure. The relatively flatnature of the mobile hologram apparatus 116 enables it to be inserted orotherwise included within direct mail pieces without incurringadditional mailing costs. While the direct mail piece 118 of FIG. 6 isshown as an envelope, in other examples, the direct mail piece mayinclude a brochure, a catalog, a magazine, a newspaper, etc.

Transition Embodiment

FIG. 7 shows a diagram of the sheet 200 of FIG. 2 between the compressedstate shown in FIGS. 3 to 6 and an uncompressed state, according to anexample embodiment of the present disclosure. In this example, themobile hologram apparatus 116 is removed from the direct mail piece 118and allowed to self-assemble or actuate into an uncompressed pyramidstructure. During self-actuation, the elastic band 302 constrictsagainst the base arms 208 at the intersection with the side sections,thereby causing the base arms 208 to move toward the center of the sheet200. This movement of the base arms 208 towards the center of the mobilehologram apparatus 116 causes the side sections 204 to angle upwards,which causes the top section 202 to be pushed upwards.

The elastic band 302 continues to constrict until the first side 220 ofthe base arms 208 contacts an adjacent base arm-side section juncture orcrease 214. At this point, the base arms 208 cannot move inward anyfurther. Additionally, the base section 206 is substantially square.

Uncompressed State Embodiment

FIG. 8 shows a diagram of the sheet 200 of the mobile hologram apparatus116 of FIG. 2 in an assembled, uncompressed state (e.g., an uncompressedpyramid structure), according to an example embodiment of the presentdisclosure. While the mobile hologram apparatus 116 appears to have arectangular-shape, it should be appreciated that the perspectiveprovides an appearance of elongation. However, in some embodiments, themobile hologram apparatus 116 may actually have a rectangular-shape.

In the illustrated example, the mobile hologram apparatus 116 is shownfrom a bottom-perspective. In this example, the base arms 208 arecompressed together. In some instances, a window 802 may exist within acenter of the base section 206 at the intersection of the base arms 208.In other instances, the window 802 may be absent with the base arms 208overlapping at the center of the base section 206. In the uncompressedstate, the elastic band 302 continues to exert a constrictive force onthe base arms 208, which holds the mobile hologram apparatus 116together in the uncompressed pyramid shape. As mentioned above inconjunction with FIG. 7, the elastic band 302 causes the first side 220of the base arms 208 to contact an adjacent base arm-side sectionjuncture or crease 214, which provide rigidity. Further, in thecompressed configuration, the tab 213 and notch 215 are jointedtogether, which provides additional support for the side sections 204.

As shown in FIG. 8, in the uncompressed state, each of the four sidesections 204 are folded at an angle of approximately 45 degrees withrespect to the top section 202 and the base arms 208 at the respectivecreases 214. In other examples, the slope of the angle may vary between25 degrees to 75 degree depending on the design and dimensions of themobile hologram apparatus 116.

FIG. 9 shows a diagram of a top-perspective view and FIG. 10 shows adiagram of a side-profile view of the mobile hologram apparatus 116 ofFIG. 8 in the assembled, uncompressed state, according to exampleembodiments of the present disclosure. In these figures, the top section202 and the base section 206 are shown as having a square-shape, withthe top section 202 having an area that is a fraction of the area of thebase section 206. Further, the top section 202 is aligned in parallelwith the base section 206. Moreover, as shown in FIG. 9, the window 802of the base section 206 is aligned with the tope section 202.

It should be appreciated that once in the uncompressed state, theexample mobile hologram apparatus 116 may be returned to the compressedstate by a consumer. For instance, a consumer may apply force to the topsection 202, which causes the top section 202 to push the side sections204 outward as the top section 202 moves towards the base section 206.The outward force exerted by the side sections 204 causes the base arms208 to separate and move outward, thereby extending the elastic band302. Compression ends when the mobile hologram apparatus 116 issubstantially flat. However, once the force exerted by the consumer isremoved, the mobile hologram apparatus 116 self-actuates to theuncompressed state.

FIGS. 11 to 13 show diagrams of a solid embodiment of the mobilehologram apparatus 116 of FIG. 8 in the uncompressed state, according toexamples of the present disclosure. In these examples, the sheet 200cutout perimeter lines (e.g., the first side 220 and second side 222 ofthe base arms 208 and the tab 213 and notch 215 of the side sections204) are omitted to show more clearly the overall pyramid structure ofthe mobile hologram apparatus 116. Similar to FIG. 8, FIG. 11 shows abottom-perspective view of the mobile hologram apparatus 116. Further,similar to FIGS. 9 and 10, FIG. 12 shows a diagram of a top-perspectiveview and FIG. 13 shows a diagram of a side-profile view of the mobilehologram apparatus 116. As shown in FIGS. 11 to 13, the mobile hologramapparatus 116, in the uncompressed state, has a pyramid shape with aflat top (i.e., a frustum).

It should be appreciated, that in some embodiments, the mobile hologramapparatus 116 may be constructed or formed into the solid structureshown in FIGS. 11 to 13. However, in these embodiments, the mobilehologram apparatus 116 may not be collapsible or capable of beingactuated into the compressed state. In these embodiments, the mobilehologram apparatus 116 may used at promotional events and provided toconsumers rather than being used in direct mail pieces.

Mobile Hologram Embodiment

FIGS. 14 and 15 show diagrams of the example mobile hologram apparatus116 of FIG. 1 in an uncompressed state placed atop a consumer device106, according to example embodiments of the present disclosure. Inthese illustrated examples, the consumer device 106 has received content108 from a content server 102 and/or content 108 included within anidentifier 122. The content 108 corresponds to an image of a vehicle,shown in the figures as holographic image 120. It should be appreciatedthat the vehicle shown in FIGS. 14 and 15 is one example of aholographic image. In other embodiments, the holographic image mayinclude any two-dimensional or three-dimensional image including forexample, a logo or an animated character such as Princess Leia.

As discussed above in connection with FIG. 1, after the example mobilehologram apparatus 116 self-actuates into the uncompressed state, aconsumer places the example mobile hologram apparatus 116 on a displayscreen 1502 of the consumer device 106. In some instances, the content108 may specify guidelines or other markers for positioning the examplemobile hologram apparatus 116. Further, the top section 202 may includean adhesive to maintain a holding force between the example mobilehologram apparatus 116 and the display screen. Without the adhesive, themobile hologram apparatus 116 may inadvertently slide over the displayscreen as a result of user-movement, a tilt angle of the consumer device106, and/or wind.

A media player or application 107 on the consumer device 106 isconfigured to render the content 108 into one or more images for displayon the display screen 1502. Four two-dimensional images of theholographic image are displayed by the consumer device 106. The fourimages are configured to be aligned with the four side sections 204 ofthe mobile hologram apparatus 116. The four two-dimensional images maybe identical or may vary to sophisticate the appearance of theholographic image 120. Light waves or beams produced by displaying theimages propagate into the mobile hologram apparatus 116 and reflect offthe side sections 204 and/or the base section 206. Intersections orinterference of the reflected light produces a three-dimensionalpattern, which is shown as the holographic image 120.

In the examples of FIGS. 14 and 15, the holographic image 120 is shownas rotating. The appearance of rotation may be caused by the mediaplayer or application 107 playing a sequence of images of a rotatingvehicle. Alternatively, the media player or application 107 may play avideo (essentially a sequence of images), that shows the vehiclerotating. In some embodiments, the appearance of rotation may be causedby a consumer touching or gesturing near, for example, the side sections204 of the mobile hologram apparatus 116. In other embodiments, theapplication 107 or more generally, the display screen 1502 may displaycontrol features that enable a consumer to manipulate the holographicimage 120, including, for example, rotate, zoom, pan, enlarge, fastforward, rewind, next image, next video, etc.

Alternative Mobile Hologram Sheets

The mobile hologram sheet 200 of FIG. 2 provides one example forcreating the example mobile hologram apparatus 116. However, otherdesigns may be used and the features and benefits of the example mobilehologram apparatus 116 disclosed herein are not limited to anyparticular design. For example, FIGS. 16 to 18 show diagrams ofalternative sheets 1600 and 1800 that may be used to create mobilehologram apparatuses, according to example embodiments of the presentdisclosure.

Specifically, FIG. 16 shows a diagram of a sheet 1600 that is foldableinto an octahedron with flat top and bottom (e.g., a dual-frustum).Similar to the sheet 200 of FIG. 2, the sheet 1600 includes a topsection 1602 and side sections 1604. However, instead of base arms 208,the sheet 1600 includes lower side sections 1606 and a lower section1608. Further, the sheet 1600 includes a stand section 1610. Unlike theexample shown in FIG. 2, the top section 1602 is not placed on theconsumer device 106. Instead, lower sections 1608 and stand 1610 areplaced on the display screen of the consumer device 106.

FIG. 17 shows a diagram of the sheet 1600 folded or assembled into anuncompressed structure to form a mobile hologram apparatus 1700. Asshown in FIG. 17, the lower side sections 1606 in conjunction with thelower section 1608 form a second pyramid structure. Depending on theangle of light beams from the consumer device 106, the illustratedmobile hologram apparatus 1700 may display a holographic image withinthe side sections 1604 and/or within the lower side sections 1606.Alternatively, a holographic image may be displayed within a middle ofthe mobile hologram apparatus 1700.

As illustrated in FIG. 17, the lower sections 1608 are joined togetherat the stand section 1610. The connection of the lower sections 1608within the stand 1610 holds the sheet 1600 together in a compressed anduncompressed state. The example stand section 1610 is configured toprovide support for the mobile hologram apparatus 1700 when placed onthe consumer device 106. The stand section 1610 may also be used toalign the mobile hologram apparatus 1700 with the image displayed on theconsumer device 106.

Another difference between sheets 200 and 1600 is the placement locationof the elastic band. Instead of placing the elastic band around aperimeter of the base section 206, in the embodiment of FIGS. 16 and 17,an elastic band 1702 is configured to run through a center of the mobilehologram apparatus 1700. For instance, side sections 1604 b and 1604 dinclude tabs 1620 a and 1620 b that are configured to fold inward. Thetabs 1620 include through holes configured to accept ends of the elasticband 1702, as illustrated in FIG. 17. The elastic band 1702 isconfigured to pull the opposite sides of the mobile hologram apparatus1700 toward each other, which causes the mobile hologram apparatus 1700to actuate from a compressed state to an uncompressed state.

FIG. 18 shows a diagram of another sheet 1800 that may be used to createa mobile hologram apparatus. In this example, the sheet 1800 comprises adual set of top sections 1802 and side sections 1804, which are used toform an octahedron with flat top and bottom (e.g., a dual-frustum),similar to FIG. 16. In addition, the sheet 1800 includes a stand section1810. A base section 1812 is also included, which is connected to thestand section 1810 to secure the mobile hologram apparatus in acompressed or uncompressed state.

Further, the sheet 1800 includes tab sections 1820 that are used tosecure an elastic band. For instance, the tab sections 1820 a and 1820 bare jointed together when the mobile hologram apparatus is assembled.Tab sections 1820 c and 1820 d are also joined together. An elastic bandis connected to the through holes of tab sections 1820 b and 1820 d.Similar to the mobile hologram apparatus 1700 of FIG. 17, the elasticband is configured to pass through the middle of the mobile hologramapparatus created from the sheet 1800 of FIG. 18. The compression of theside sections 1804 b, 1804 d, 1804 f, and 1804 h causes the mobilehologram apparatus to actuate from a compressed to an uncompressedstate.

Alternative Deployment Embodiment

As discussed above in conjunction with FIGS. 1 to 18, the mobilehologram apparatus includes an elastic band or tension mechanism tocause automatic self-assembly or self-actuation from a compressed stateto uncompressed state. However, in some embodiments, the mobile hologramapparatus may be configured to be opened to an uncompressed state by aconsumer. In these embodiments, the elastic band is omitted and replacedwith sections, tabs, or panels that enable the mobile hologram apparatusto be secured in the uncompressed state. For example, the mobilehologram apparatus may include one or more tabs or panels that are movedafter the mobile hologram apparatus is opened into the uncompressedstate. The movement of the tabs or panels may lock or restrict themobile hologram apparatus from falling back into the compressed state.The movement of the tabs or panels may be caused by the consumer or maybe configured to move automatically after the mobile hologram apparatusis opened to the compressed state. For example, a tab may lock base arms208 of FIG. 2 in place. The tabs and/or panels may be released by theconsumer to enable the mobile hologram apparatus to be placed back intothe compressed state.

Flowcharts of the Example Processes

FIG. 19 illustrates a flow diagram showing an example procedure 1900 tocreate the mobile hologram apparatus 116 of FIGS. 1 to 15, according toan example embodiment of the present disclosure. Although the procedure1900 is described with reference to the flow diagram illustrated in FIG.19, it should be appreciated that many other methods of performing thesteps associated with the procedure 1900 may be used. For example, theorder of many of the blocks may be changed, certain blocks may becombined with other blocks, and many of the blocks described areoptional. Further, the actions described in procedure 1900 may beperformed among multiple devices including, for example a plastic sheetforming machine, a plastic sheet folding machine, and a plastic sheetpackaging machine.

The procedure 1900 begins when the example sheet 200 of FIG. 2 iscreated, fabricated, or molded (block 1902). In some examples, the sheet200 may be formed into the predefined shape shown in FIG. 2. Further thesheet 200 may be formed with the creases 214. In other examples, thesheet 200 may be cut from a rectangular plastic sheet using a stencil orprogrammed routine. After the sheet 200 is cut, the creases may beadded. In some instances, the sheet 200 may be formed from more than onelayer. In these instances, the layers are connected together. In someinstances, opaque layers are added to base arms or other sections. Atthis point, the sheet may be printed or otherwise coated with ink, film,or other materials to incorporate marketing or promotional informationor improve light reflectivity. In addition, an identifier 122 may alsobe printed or otherwise connected to the mobile hologram apparatus 116.

After the sheet 200 is formed, the sheet 200 is folded or assembled intoan uncompressed pyramid structure to create the mobile hologramapparatus 116 (block 1904). An elastic band is then placed along aperimeter of a base of the mobile hologram apparatus 116 (block 1906).The mobile hologram apparatus 116 is then placed into the compressedstate and placed inside or within a direct mail piece (blocks 1908 and1910). The mobile hologram apparatus 116 is next mailed within thedirect mail piece to a consumer (block 1912). The example procedure 1900then ends with respect to manufacture of the particular mobile hologramapparatus 116.

In some embodiments, the mobile hologram apparatus 116 may be sent toanother party that is responsible for creating direct mail pieces. Inthese examples, the mobile hologram apparatus 116 is shipped, afterbeing manufactured into the assembled, compressed state. The partyresponsible for assembling or creating the direct mail pieces may thenincorporate the mobile hologram apparatus 116 with the direct mailpiece.

FIG. 20 illustrates a flow diagram showing example procedures 2000 and2050 to display content using the mobile hologram apparatus 116 of FIGS.1 to 15, according to example embodiments of the present disclosure.Although the procedures 2000 and 2050 are described with reference tothe flow diagram illustrated in FIG. 20, it should be appreciated thatmany other methods of performing the steps associated with theprocedures 2000 and 2050 may be used. For example, the order of many ofthe blocks may be changed, certain blocks may be combined with otherblocks, and many of the blocks described are optional. Further, theactions described in the procedures 2000 and 2050 may be performed amongmultiple devices including, for example a third-party system 112.

The procedure 2000 of FIG. 20 begins when a consumer receives a directmail piece and removes the mobile hologram apparatus 116. When removed,the mobile hologram apparatus 116 is in a compressed state. However,after being removed by the consumer, the mobile hologram apparatus 116self-actuates and automatically opens from the compressed state to theuncompressed state (block 2002). The consumer then uses the consumerdevice 106 to scan an identifier 122 on the mobile hologram apparatus116 and/or the direct mail piece (block 2004). Scanning the identifier122 enables the consumer device 106 to determine an address or locationof a content server 102 that is storing related content. The consumerdevice transmits a request message 110 to the identified content server102 that includes an identifier, code, or address of content related tothe identifier 122. In instances where the content is included withinthe identifier, a request message is not transmitted.

After transmitting the message 110, the example consumer device 106receives one or more messages from the content server 102 that includethe content 108. The consumer device 106 uses a media player orapplication 107 to display the received content 108 (block 2006). Aconsumer then places the mobile hologram apparatus 116 on top of adisplay screen of the consumer device 106, which causes a holographicimage 120 to form within the mobile hologram apparatus 116 (block 2008).After the holographic image 120 is displayed, the example procedure ends2000. However, in some embodiments, the consumer device 106 and/orapplication 107 may monitor and record the consumer's interaction withthe mobile hologram apparatus 116 and any subsequent product/serviceengagement or purchase.

In some examples, the consumer device 106 may delay playing the content108 until the mobile hologram apparatus 116 is placed on top of thedisplay screen. For instance, the consumer device 106 may use capacitivesensing within the display screen or proximity sensing using a camera todetermine when the mobile hologram apparatus 116 is in place.Alternatively, the consumer device 106 may display a play button that ispressed by the consumer after the mobile hologram apparatus 116 isplaced on the display screen of the consumer device.

In further examples, the consumer device 106 may include instructions orroutines that determine a position of the mobile hologram apparatus 116with respect to the screen using for example, capacitive sensing oranalysis of images recorded by a camera. The consumer device 106 maythen display instructions for positioning the mobile hologram apparatus116 within guidelines. Alternatively, the mobile hologram apparatus 116may cause the content 108 to be displayed at the location of the mobilehologram apparatus 116. In these alternative instances, the consumerdevice 106 and/or the application 107 may track any movement of themobile hologram apparatus 116 along the display screen and adjust wherethe image is displayed on the screen so that the image is continuouslydisplayed within the mobile hologram apparatus 116.

The procedure 2050 of FIG. 20 begins when the content server 102receives a message 110 from the consumer device that identifies content(block 2052). The message 110 includes an identifier of the content or acode related to the content. The content server 102 accesses a memory ordatabase to determine a location of the related content 108 (block2054). The content server 102 then transmits one or more messages (orfile(s)) that include a copy of the requested content 108 to theconsumer device 106 (block 2056). In some instances, the content 108 mayalso include instructions for rendering or changing the display of thecontent based on conditions or input from a consumer. The exampleprocedure 2050 then ends.

CONCLUSION

It will be appreciated that all of the disclosed methods and proceduresdescribed herein can be implemented using one or more computer programsor components. These components may be provided as a series of computerinstructions on any computer-readable medium, including RAM, ROM, flashmemory, magnetic or optical disks, optical memory, or other storagemedia. The instructions may be configured to be executed by a processor,which when executing the series of computer instructions performs orfacilitates the performance of all or part of the disclosed methods andprocedures.

It should be understood that various changes and modifications to theexample embodiments described herein will be apparent to those skilledin the art. Such changes and modifications can be made without departingfrom the spirit and scope of the present subject matter and withoutdiminishing its intended advantages. It is therefore intended that suchchanges and modifications be covered by the appended claims.

The invention is claimed as follows:
 1. A mobile hologram apparatuscomprising: a sheet folded along preformed creases into a pyramidstructure configured to be actuated between a compressed state and anuncompressed state, the pyramid structure having a base section and atop section connected by side sections at the preformed creases, thepyramid structure having a height in the compressed state that is lessthan a height of the pyramid structure in the uncompressed state; anelastic band positioned about the base of the pyramid structure at eachof the respective preformed creases that are located at respectivejunctions between the base section and each of the side sections, andconfigured to cause the pyramid structure to actuate from the compressedstate to the uncompressed state by applying a compressive force at therespective preformed creases that are located at the respectivejunctions between the base section and each of the side sections; and adirect mail envelope dimensioned to accommodate at least the pyramidstructure in the compressed state.
 2. The mobile hologram apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the elastic band causes the pyramid structure toactuate from the compressed state to the uncompressed state when thepyramid structure in the compressed state is removed from the directmail envelope.
 3. The mobile hologram apparatus of claim 1, wherein thebase section includes at least one of an opaque paint, opaque film,opaque sticker, opaque print, and opaque dye, and wherein the topsection and the side sections are transparent.
 4. The mobile hologramapparatus of claim 1, wherein an exterior of the base section is opaqueand an interior of the base section is reflective.
 5. The mobilehologram apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a stand sectionconnected to the top section configured to support the pyramid structurein the uncompressed state on a display screen of a consumer device. 6.The mobile hologram apparatus of claim 1, wherein the side sections areangled to each reflect a preconfigured light beam causing the reflectedlight to intersect and interfere inside of the uncompressed pyramidstructure to form a holographic image.
 7. The mobile hologram apparatusof claim 1, wherein the base section has a greater length and width inthe compressed state than in the uncompressed state.
 8. The mobilehologram apparatus of claim 1, wherein the sheet comprises at least oneof plastic, glass, crystal, a biological polymer, a carbon-basedcompound, and combinations thereof.
 9. The mobile hologram apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the sheet has a thickness between 0.1 millimeters(“mm”) and 4 mm.
 10. The mobile hologram apparatus of claim 1, whereineach of the side sections has a triangular shape.
 11. The mobilehologram apparatus of claim 1, wherein the envelope is adapted forplacement within at least one of a brochure, a catalog, a magazine, anda newspaper.
 12. The mobile hologram apparatus of claim 1, wherein thetop section is flat, parallel to the base section, and has a squareshape that is located within a middle of the transparent sheet beforethe transparent sheet is folded; the side sections each have a bottomedge and a top edge, each side section connected at the top edge to thetop section; and the base section includes base arms that are eachconnected to the bottom edge of one of the side sections.
 13. The mobilehologram apparatus of claim 12, wherein some of the preformed creasesare located at respective junctions between each of the top edges of theside sections and the top section, and wherein other of the preformedcreases are located at respective junctions between each of the sidesections and the respective base arms.
 14. The mobile hologram apparatusof claim 12, wherein each of the base arms includes: a first side edgeconfigured to contact one of the creases located between an adjacentside section and adjacent base arm for support when the pyramidstructure is in the uncompressed state; and a second side edge oppositethe first side edge having a curved shape that enables the base arms topress together to form the base section when the pyramid structure isactuated from the compressed state to the uncompressed state.
 15. Themobile hologram apparatus of claim 12, wherein an exterior of the topsection includes a transparent adhesive configured to enable theuncompressed pyramid structure to be removably connected to a displayscreen of a consumer device.
 16. The mobile hologram apparatus of claim12, wherein, in the uncompressed state, each of the side sections isfolded at an angle between 25 degrees and 75 degrees with respect to thetop section at the respective crease, and in the compressed state, eachof the side sections is folded at an angle between 0 degrees and 15degrees with respect to the top section at the respective crease. 17.The mobile hologram apparatus of claim 12, wherein, in the uncompressedstate, each of the side sections is folded at an angle between 25degrees and 75 degrees with respect to the corresponding base arm at therespective crease, and in the compressed state, each of the four sidesections is folded at an angle between 165 degrees and 180 degrees withrespect to the corresponding base arm at the respective crease.
 18. Themobile hologram apparatus of claim 12, wherein each of the top edges ofthe side arms includes at least one recess section.
 19. The mobilehologram apparatus of claim 18, wherein the elastic band (i) contactsthe base section at where the base arms contact the respective sidesections, and (ii) passes through the at least one recess section foreach of the bottom edges of the side arms.
 20. A mobile hologramapparatus comprising: a sheet folded along preformed creases into apyramid structure configured to be actuated between a compressed stateand an uncompressed state, the pyramid structure having a base sectionand a top section connected by side sections at the preformed creases,the pyramid structure having a height in the compressed state that isless than a height of the pyramid structure in the uncompressed state;and an elastic band positioned about the base of the pyramid structureat each of the respective preformed creases that are located atrespective junctions between the base section and each of the sidesections, and configured to cause the pyramid structure to actuate fromthe compressed state to the uncompressed state by applying a compressiveforce at the respective preformed creases that are located at therespective junctions between the base section and each of the sidesections.